AFCON preps gather pace
DODOMA: PRIME Minister Mwigulu Nchemba has said that preparations for AFCON 2027 are progressing smoothly, with three new training ground projects currently underway: Farasi Grounds, Gymkhana Annex, and Leaders Club. The facilities are expected to provide essential support for teams participating in next year’s tournament.
These new venues complement the facilities already completed in Dar es Salaam, including Major General Isamuhyo Stadium, Gymkhana Club, and the Law School of Tanzania grounds, all of which are now fully equipped and ready to serve as official training sites.
Presenting the government’s review and budget estimates in Parliament in Dodoma on Wednesday the PM said the developments are part of efforts to meet hosting requirements.
He said host countries (Tanzania, Kenya and Uganda) are expected to provide not only match venues, but also adequate training facilities for national teams participating in the finals.
“These preparations include the construction and rehabilitation of stadia as well as supporting infrastructure,” he said.
The training grounds are expected to be used by teams throughout the tournament, providing space for preparation alongside the main stadiums.
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The Prime Minister also outlined progress on the three main venues on mainland Tanzania. He said that Samia Suluhu Hassan Stadium in Arusha has reached 75 per cent completion, the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam is 95 per cent complete following refurbishment, and construction of Dodoma Stadium is ongoing, with progress at four per cent.
He said the projects form part of wider plans to strengthen infrastructure linked to the tournament and ensure the country is ready to host. Mwigulu said investment in sports infrastructure is expected to contribute to longer-term benefits, including employment opportunities, tourism and growth of the sports sector.
He also highlighted efforts to promote talent development through school competitions.
National tournaments such as inter-primary and secondary games (UMITASHUMTA and UMISETA) have been organised, alongside participation in international competitions, including the CAF Schools Championship.
“The government will continue to organise and strengthen school competitions such as UMITASHUMTA and UMISETA to identify, nurture and develop young talents who can represent the country in future,” he said.
Recently, in Ghana, Tanzania won the boys’ title at the CAF Schools Championship, a result the PM said highlights the role of school competitions in developing future players for youth national teams.
He also noted recent progress in club football, where four Tanzanian teams (Simba, Young Africans, Azam and Singida Black Stars) reached the group stages of continental competitions for the first time.
Premier Mwigulu says it will continue to oversee preparations for AFCON 2027, while strengthening international participation and expanding programmes to identify and develop young talent.
